If you’re getting started with wreath making—or want to make sure you’re using the right materials—having the proper supplies makes a big difference in how easy the process feels and how professional the finished wreath looks.

This guide covers the essential wreath making supplies, explains what each item is used for, and helps you understand what you actually need versus what is optional.

Core Wreath Making Supplies

These are the foundational supplies used in most wreath projects, regardless of style or season.

Wreath Base

The wreath base provides the structure for your design. The type of base you choose affects how you attach materials and how the wreath looks overall.

Common wreath bases include:

• Deco mesh wreath frames (work forms)

• Grapevine wreaths

• Wire wreath frames

• Evergreen or artificial wreath bases

Deco mesh frames are popular for fuller, structured wreaths. Grapevine wreaths are more organic and often use florals and ribbon instead of mesh.

Deco Mesh (Optional but Common)

Deco mesh is frequently used for full, colorful wreaths, especially on wire frames.

Deco mesh is used to:

• Add volume and fullness

• Create a consistent base layer

• Support bows and accents

Not all wreaths use deco mesh. Grapevine and greenery-based wreaths often skip mesh entirely.

Wired Ribbon (Essential)

Ribbon is one of the most important wreath-making supplies.

Wired ribbon is strongly recommended because it:

• Holds bows and loops in place

• Creates fuller designs

• Is easier to shape and adjust

• Maintains its shape over time

Most wreath makers use multiple ribbon widths, commonly:

• 1.5-inch for accents

• 2.5-inch for standard bows

• 4-inch for statement bows

👉 Related guides:

• What Ribbon Size for Wreaths

• Wired vs. Unwired Ribbon for Wreaths

Florals, Greenery, and Picks

Florals and greenery add texture, color, and dimension to wreaths.

These include:

• Artificial flowers

• Greenery sprays

• Seasonal picks (berries, pumpkins, ornaments, etc.)

• Filler stems

These elements are usually attached after the base and ribbon are in place.

Signs and Embellishments

Signs and focal embellishments help define the theme of a wreath.

Common options include:

• Metal signs

• Wooden signs

• Door hangers

• Seasonal or themed accents

Signs are often attached near the center or slightly off-center of the wreath.

Fasteners and Attachment Supplies

These supplies hold everything together.

Essential attachment tools include:

• Floral wire

• Pipe cleaners (chenille stems)

• Zip ties

• Hot glue (for select items)

Most wreath makers rely on wire or pipe cleaners for structural elements and use hot glue sparingly.

Basic Tools for Wreath Making

You don’t need a lot of tools, but a few basics make wreath making much easier.

Recommended tools:

• Wire cutters

• Ribbon scissors

• Needle-nose pliers

• Measuring tape or ruler

These tools help with clean cuts, secure attachments, and consistent ribbon loops.

Optional Wreath Making Supplies

These items are not required for every wreath but can enhance your designs.

Optional supplies include:

• Ribbon tails or streamers

• Decorative sprays

• Battery-operated lights

• Specialty textures (raffia, rope, burlap accents)

These are typically added based on personal style or seasonal trends.

Supplies for Different Wreath Styles

Deco Mesh Wreaths

Typically use:

• Wire frame

• Deco mesh

• Multiple wired ribbons

• Signs or picks

Grapevine Wreaths

Typically use:

• Grapevine base

• Florals and greenery

• One or more wired ribbons

• Minimal mesh (often none)

Beginner-Friendly Supply Recommendations

If you’re just starting out, focus on:

• One wreath base

• Wired ribbon in 1.5" and 2.5"

• A small selection of florals or picks

• Basic wire and cutters

You can always add more variety as your confidence grows.

Final Thoughts

Wreath making doesn’t require an overwhelming amount of supplies, but using the right supplies makes the process easier and the finished wreath look more polished.

Most wreaths are built from the same core materials:

• A sturdy base

• Wired ribbon

• Decorative accents

• Secure attachments

Once you understand how each supply is used, you can mix and match materials to create wreaths for any season or style.